DALLAS (CBSDFW.COM) - The Lake Highlands community felt terrorized after three different women were raped in their own homes over just a matter of weeks. But the suspect is now sitting behind bars, and grateful Dallas residents are trying to give back. Neighborhood associations in the area are encouraging citizens to thank the Dallas Police Department officers who have been working on this case.

Cesar Benitez was arrested last week. The 33-year-old man has been charged with two counts of sexual assault and one count of burglary.

But for more than a month, police officers saturated the Lake Highlands area, looking for a suspect in the serial rape case. During that time, families changed their routines, upgraded their home security systems and even took self-defense courses. However, it was extra police presence that helped many residents feel more secure.

Now, residents want to thank officers for working so hard on the case and making an arrest. Somebody brought in cake and cookies on Monday, but those vanished quickly. So, to show their appreciation, folks are being asked to bring food, cards and sweets to the North East Division substation.